SAMO, 2023
Genre: Hip-Hop/Soul
Reviewed: 26 November 2023
© 2023 ZRi (The Wicked)
In the rhythmic tapestry of ZRi.'s debut mixtape, SAMO, a vibrant fusion of Hip-Hop and Soul unfolds, echoing the artist's westernized influences. Released in 2023, SAMO not only resonates sonically but also visually, with an art cover inspired by the iconic Jean Basquiat. ZRi., positioning himself as a contemporary torchbearer of neo-expressionism, channels the spirit of the influential artist in both his sound and aesthetic. The collaborative essence of SAMO is palpable, as ZRi. joins forces with close friend/producer, Steveisfrench, weaving intricate sequencing but lacking in a compelling narrative that transcends genres. In this review, we delve into the magnetic pull of ZRi.'s neo-expressionist vision, exploring the intersection of culture, creativity, and collaboration within the vibrant tapestry of SAMO.
The SAMO duo, an enigmatic artistic collaboration that emerged in the 1970s, consisted of Jean-Michel Basquiat and Al Diaz. Operating under the pseudonym SAMO, an acronym for "Same Old Shit," the duo left a distinctive mark on the streets of New York City through their thought-provoking and often cryptic graffiti statements. Basquiat and Diaz utilized the cityscape as their canvas, employing spray paint to convey social commentary, poetic musings, and critiques of contemporary culture.
SAMO, often incorporated shapes into their artwork as a strategic means of communication. Shapes allowed them to convey messages in a visually succinct and universally understandable manner, especially in the context of street art.
ZRi's inaugural mixtape, "SAMO," stands out as a daring and ambitious debut, spotlighting the artistic prowess and innovation of the South African musician. Influenced by Jean Basquiat's art, ZRi guides listeners through a narrative exploring themes of love, art, and his individual struggles. Teaming up with close friend Steveisfrench, the collaboration infuses a distinctive mix of hip-hop, soul, and electronic components, crafting a sound that is simultaneously psychedelic and atmospheric.
In his mixtape, ZRi employs velvety vocals, expansive melodies and to communicate his message. The seamless integration of funk, jazz, and reverb enriches the project, yet the prolonged melodies exhibit a certain predictability and monotony. This may potentially disconnect some listeners, especially those hailing from ZRi's homeland of South Africa and the broader African continent, due to the absence of distinct vocal and melodic structures.
Within the dynamic tapestry of ZRi.'s debut mixtape, "SAMO," several tracks stand out as luminous gems, each contributing a unique hue to the sonic canvas. The title track, "SAMO" with its mellifluous blend of Hip-Hop beats and soulful melodies, emerges as an early highlight, showcasing ZRi.'s and Tyson Sybateli lyrical prowess and the tapestry of emotions he weaves alongside Cindi Masina. "INDIGO KIDZ" propels the listener through a rhythmic journey, its eclectic beats and evocative lyrics creating a vivid sense of exploration. The collaborative synergy with Steveisfrench, Michael Tuohy & Tembipowers is notably crystallized in "THAT'S ON GOD," where the seamless fusion of their musical styles produces a harmonious masterpiece. As the mixtape unfolds, the final track, "BAD GIRLZ," stands out as a poignant conclusion, capturing the neo-expressionist essence that permeates the certain parts of the project. In this closing piece, ZRi. openly expresses his affection for "bad girls," a sentiment that resonates as a common theme among many individuals.. These standout tracks not only showcase ZRi.'s potential for greatness but also assert "SAMO" as a commendable effort. However, the mixtape feels somewhat incomplete, suggesting a lack of clear intent in fully realizing the artistic vision ZRi. aims to portray.
While the mixtape occasionally delves onto superficial themes, centering on self-promotion and the yearning for recognition, it doesn't address the significant current challenges facing Africa. ZRi seems focused on establishing himself globally rather than reflecting the tumultuous times. Despite offering a distinctive and immersive listening journey akin to stoner beats or trippy sounds, the project falls short in terms of both production and lyrics, lacking the innovation and creativity needed to truly parallel Jean Basquiat. With a conciseness 17-minute runtime, SAMO by ZRi leaves a positive initial impression likely to fade, yet it hints at the artist's potential for future growth and experimentation.
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